The plethora of terms used for the application tapes sold in the sign and screen print markets could confuse anyone. In the sign market, many people just use the terms “application tape” or “application paper”. Frequently this tape is also incorrectly referred to as “transfer tape”. If you are a purist and want to pick a […] Read more »
Preparing Floors for Floor Graphics
Learn how to how to laminate the graphic, how to place it, how to prep the surface, and how to install the graphic so it will stay put and do its job. With floor graphics representing a $2 billion industry, can you really afford not to get involved? The answer for most of you is […] Read more »
Why Install Graphics in a Relaxed State
Years ago professional decal installers were taught to install vinyl graphics in a relaxed state without stretching the film. While vinyl films today are much more robust and can withstand the stresses encountered when wrapping a vehicle, you are much less likely to experience film failure, if you adhere to some of the old rules. […] Read more »
Problems with Static Electricity
In much of the country September ushers in climatic changes. As the autumn air becomes colder, the humidity of the air outdoors decreases. The drop in humidity can result in an increase of problems related with static electricity. Static problems in print shops are further exacerbated, as we switch from air conditioning to a heating […] Read more »
Processing Instructions for CoolPrint
Some articles, such as umbrellas, backpacks, computer bags and raincoats, are difficult if not impossible to heat press.Now you have a cool new option from RTape Corp. It’s a printable, pressure-sensitive polyurethane film called CoolPrint. The new film sticks to virtually every surface. It even sticks to surfaces with a hydrophobic coating. And it sticks […] Read more »
Premask Puckering on Screen Printed Graphics
A number of factors can cause puckering and tunneling of a premask or application tape laminated on a screen printed vinyl graphic. These factors fall into three broad categories: environment, material processing and product selection. Read more »
Introducing Tatoo Printable Heat Transfer Films
RTape Corp. (South Plainfield, NJ) introduces its SEF Tatoo heat transfer film, which is a white, printable, multi-layer polyurethane construction on a polyester liner or carrier. Tatoo films are printable using a wide range of digital printers, including solvent, ecosolvent and latex systems. The brilliance of the facestock and its chemical formulation allow for vibrant […] Read more »
Adhesion Testing
Testing the Bond of an Ink or Paint Whether you are screen printing or painting, the coating must bond to the substrate for the service life of the product. Depending on the physical properties of the coating that you have selected for a project and the substrate to which the coating will be applied, the […] Read more »
New Mexico Neon on Route 66
Sign makers are getting their kicks restoring vintage neon signs along New Mexico’s portion of Route 66. Brightly-lit sombreros and teepees are entertaining youngsters who are anxious to arrive at their destinations. And many other characters and critters that personify Route 66 are once again being lit up with pride. Read more »
Water Size Recipe for Glass Gilding
In glass gilding, a water size is the glue that adheres gold leaf to the glass. Made of water-clear gelatin and distilled water, it is essential for creating a brilliant gold mirror finish. Of course, you can also apply gold to glass with oil size, if you want areas of a design to have a […] Read more »
